Our Top 10 Remarkable People of 2009
THINK REMARKABLE’S TOP 10 PEOPLE OF 2009 – the first in a series, we cull through all that we witnessed to serve up the most remarkable people, books and experiences we’ve had circa 2009. May you enjoy them too - Julie, Dean, Donna and Scott
Because these people are making indelible marks as humanitarians who mainstream the mastery of their particular craft and calling.
1. Will Allen, Founder, Growing Power
Because this farm-raised former NBA player is creating good jobs, good food, and even better community in Milwaukee—with towering authority that it can be done in one fell swoop.
2. Karen Armstrong, Author and Trailblazer
Because she created and launched the Charter For Compassion to restore compassion to the center of morality and religion. Her goal: to unite all religions under the shared connection of compassion.
3. Reed Hastings, CEO, NetFlix
Because he took video rentals to the next level of innovation and simplicity. With Blockbuster in the dust, he is about to do it again with on-demand—this time Hollywood is playing along.
4. Bobby Henline, Wounded Vet
Because he took his burns, his amputation, his injuries, and turned them into comedy and an example for the rest of us.
5. Jon Huntsman, Sr.
Because he is an honest business innovator, one of a dying American breed; a true capitalist who’s honesty and integrity are consistently reliable—meaning his word (or a deal handshake) is his bond, in good times and bad.
6. Graham Kerr, The Galloping Gourmet
Because right relationship to food is a gift, and Graham and Julia Child pioneered cooking on television; his enthusiasm and humanity on the Galloping Gourmet made him a worldwide sensation. Graham is exploring the healthiest of diets and home gardening.
7. Nathan Martin, CEO, Deep Local
Because we are dazzled his innovation and entrepreneurial approach to advancing phase II of computer life leveraging mobile, web and voice.
8. The Nobel Foundation
Because their decision to award Barack Obama with the prize so early in his career was an audacious plea for peace on earth, good will to men. (Anybody? Anybody?)
9. Scott Simon, Host, Saturday Weekend Edition, NPR
Because he is the most wide-ranging and humane of radio interviewers who in opening his richly diverse window to the world makes Saturday mornings very very special.
10. Chesley Sullenberger, Pilot
Because there were two flights that could have ended in disaster in 2009—and didn’t because of people—Sully’s quick thinking and skill saved the day in the Hudson….and NW flight 253’s conclusion was positively impacted by a couple of brave passengers and crew. The opposite of our frailty is our ability to act.
Great list! I know few of the remarkable people listed, which is exciting to learn/explore new profiles.